Most of us are familiar with the eager crowds and long lines that are associated with Black Friday. However, I much prefer the more relaxed, feeling of Small Business Saturday. For me, there’s nothing like stopping into your favorite boutique and being greeted by name – maybe even getting a hug! Wandering around the store and finding that great piece I’ve been dreaming of is a thrilling, humbling, and wonderful experience.
If it seems like Small Business Saturday is a new thing, that’s because it is! The first Small Business Saturday took place on November 27, 2010 in Roslindale, Massachusetts as a response to the economic recession. Created by American Express, the event was a way to encourage community members to Shop Small, bringing more holiday business to local small businesses. The event gained attention and the following year the Senate passed a resolution in support of the event. Since then the movement has grown and Small Business Saturday continues to be an annual holiday shopping tradition in the US and the UK.
Small Business Saturday Design Finds
Supporting small businesses and participating in Small Business Saturday is important for us at the firm. Not just because we’re proud members of the Houston community, but because we’re designers too. As interior designers, it’s our purpose to find unique and out-of-the ordinary pieces for our clients’ homes.
Over the years, the team and I have gotten to know many of the small businesses in Houston. This year Small Business Saturday will be on November 30, which is right around the corner. I thought it would be the perfect time to share a few of our favorite stores with you. Whether we’re sourcing art or antiques, there are a few places we’ve come to love. So without further ado, here are the design team’s favorite small business shops for design finds.
Shannon Smith
When it comes to unique design finds, AREA Houston on Westheimer is one of my favorite stores. They have an amazing collection of accessories, lighting, and furnishings sourced from the best markets. They keep us supplied with great accessories for all our Classically Current installs. Not to mention, the staff is charming and easy to work with! Their pieces are perfect for creating beautiful, timeless interiors.
Letecia E Haywood
Berings isn’t your average hardware store. You can find everything from stationery to china, grills, and even stuff for the kids. I love that can get a cup of great coffee while I’m picking up light bulbs and a plate stand for a client project. It’s one of my favorite small businesses to shop at because it has everything you need all in one place!
Shenay Keyes
One of my favorite small businesses for design finds is Reeves antiques. They’re a family owned and operated business and have been a part of the Houston community for more than 48 years. They have a special eye for Texas artists of both the past and present. Browsing their vintage pieces and vast collection of art is always an adventure. You never know what crazy or amazing design finds you’ll come across here.
Lexie Terry
Found for the Home is one of my go-to small businesses for unique design finds that are as functional as they are beautiful! They carry a mix of home furnishings and art from the past and present, as well as from all over the country and Europe. I love that they work with local artists to commission original works and revitalize the antique pieces they find. The staff at Found for the Home is incredibly helpful. It’s so fun to chat with them while you’re browsing and hear the stories behind the pieces on display.
Laura Umansky
I love Events in River Oaks! I go there specifically for their picture frame selection. It’s amazing! But they don’t just carry picture frames. They have a huge selection of everything from home decor to jewelry, stationery, and dining and entertaining pieces. Whether I’m looking for a hostess gift or picking something up for my fall fete, they have exactly what I need.
Support Small Business Saturday
Being a part of Small Business Saturday is a shopping practice I try to enjoy year after year. For our firm, choosing to support local small businesses every day is about more than just sourcing unique design finds. It’s about coming together to celebrate other local business owners to help create flourishing, more vibrant communities.